Hunter was an 11-year veteran and most recently assigned to the First District.

The man accused of killing Hunter is being held on a $1 million bail and is facing a charge of vehicular homicide. Chau Thai Nguyen made his first appearance in court Tuesday night. His public defender asked a judge to set bond at $75,000 because Nguyen has no felony convictions -- aside from a misdemeanor in 2000 for which he served three years probation and 60 days in jail.

Bail was set at $1 million. The judge said if he's able to post bond, Nguyen has to undergo drug and alcohol testing.

The court appearance happened just hours after Hunter died from the injuries she suffered early Sunday. Investigators said Hunter was working traffic control around 2:30 a.m. after an accident on eastbound Interstate 10 near Esplanade Avenue. She had her emergency lights on and flares were placed on the road. Police said Nguyen was speeding and crashed his car into the back of Hunter's patrol vehicle.

Officers said they detected a strong smell of alcohol on Nguyen's breath and he was slurring his speech during questioning. According to police, the 33-year old Xavier University pharmacy student admitted to having several alcoholic beverages earlier that night.

The city and law enforcement community have come together in this time of tragedy to offer prayers and support for Hunter's family, which includes her 5-year-old daughter.

"Officer Hunter was a dedicated public servant who loved her family, her job and serving her city,” said Superintendent Michael Harrison in a statement. “We will never forget the sacrifice she made and the hearts and prayers of our entire department are with her family today and always."

“I am devastated to learn of the passing of Officer Natasha Hunter. She was a dedicated police officer who wore the badge with honor and pride,” said Mayor Mitch Landrieu in a statement. ”Her loss is an absolute tragedy. My thoughts and prayers go out to her loved ones and the NOPD family during this difficult time."

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